Is Cannabis Legal in Budapest? | Legal Status Explained

Cannabis is illegal in Hungary, including Budapest, and the country maintains very strict laws regarding its possession, use, cultivation, and trafficking. The law treats cannabis with the same severity as other illicit drugs, which means that possessing any amount of cannabis is considered a criminal offence. The penalties can be severe and may include prison sentences, fines, and other legal consequences. Even small amounts of cannabis, which might be considered personal use in other countries, are taken seriously and prosecuted. This strict approach reflects Hungary’s conservative stance on drug policy and a strong emphasis on deterrence.

Medical Cannabis

Hungary does not have a formal medical cannabis programme, and cannabis is not legally available for medicinal use. While cannabis-based medications such as Sativex, which is used for multiple sclerosis, have been approved, their use is extremely limited and tightly controlled. The majority of patients do not have access to cannabis for medical purposes, and there is no legal framework that allows patients to cultivate or obtain cannabis for therapeutic use. The government maintains a firm position against broader medical cannabis programmes, and exceptions are rare and tightly regulated. As a result, patients seeking cannabis for medical reasons often have limited options within Hungary.

CBD Products

Cannabidiol (CBD) products are available in Hungary but under strict conditions. CBD products must contain less than 0.2 percent THC to be legal and must comply with European Union regulations. While these products can be legally sold and used, there are restrictions on production, especially regarding CBD oils, which are not permitted to be produced domestically. The legal framework surrounding CBD is somewhat complex and evolving, but generally, CBD products that meet THC limits and regulatory standards can be legally marketed and used. Consumers are advised to ensure products meet these requirements to avoid legal complications.

Cultivation Laws

Cultivating cannabis plants is illegal in Hungary regardless of the intended use. The law does not distinguish between cultivation for personal, recreational, or medical purposes. Growing even a single cannabis plant is considered a criminal offence and can result in prosecution. Hungarian authorities actively enforce these laws, and penalties for cultivation can be severe. This strict prohibition reflects the country’s zero-tolerance policy toward cannabis and is aimed at preventing any expansion of cannabis availability within the country.

Public Demonstrations and Advocacy

Public advocacy or demonstrations supporting cannabis legalisation are also strictly prohibited in Hungary. In April 2025, a constitutional amendment was passed that bans the promotion of drugs, including cannabis. This means that public events or demonstrations calling for cannabis legalisation or related causes are illegal and can be subject to police intervention or legal sanctions. This amendment reflects the government’s strong stance against drug liberalisation and further limits public discourse on cannabis policy reform within the country.

CBD Products

CBD products are legal in Hungary as long as they contain less than 0.2% THC. These products can be sold as cosmetics and are available in pharmacies, but they cannot be marketed for ingestion or health benefits. The sale of CBD as a food supplement is prohibited, and products must not make health claims. Despite these restrictions, CBD products are widely available in stores and online, often labelled as "not for consumption."

Public Consumption and Enforcement

While personal use and private cultivation are decriminalised, public consumption and possession of cannabis are prohibited. In Budapest, as in other parts of Hungary, consuming cannabis in public spaces such as streets or parks can lead to fines or confiscation of the substance. It's advisable to consume cannabis only in private settings to avoid legal issues.

Summary

In summary, cannabis remains illegal in Budapest and throughout Hungary with strict laws and penalties for possession, use, cultivation, and trafficking. The country does not have a medical cannabis programme beyond a few tightly controlled exceptions, and CBD products are legal only under limited and specific conditions. Additionally, public promotion or advocacy for cannabis legalisation is prohibited. Anyone residing in or visiting Hungary should be aware of these laws and exercise caution to avoid legal repercussions.